Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding confidence among displaced communities following recent insurgent attacks in key parts of the state.
During a recent interview from 2:00, Zulum confirmed that insurgency in the state has taken a troubling turn, especially in areas like Marte, New Marte, and Wulgo, where Boko Haram and ISWAP militants have recently launched fresh offensives. He disclosed that over 20,000 households, translating to nearly 80,000 individuals, have been displaced from Marte alone.
He said, “What we have seen on the ground is very obnoxious because more than 20,000 heads of households were displaced. In terms of the total number of people displaced, it’s getting to about 80,000.”
Zulum revealed that the Nigerian Army has taken action, relocating the GOC 7 Division from Maiduguri to Dikwa, which is now serving as a strategic base. “Right now, soldiers are pulling back to Marte,” he added, confirming that troops in Rann have also been reinforced.
The governor has been on a four-day tour of the affected areas, including sleeping over in towns like Dikwa. Explaining the reason behind these visits, he said, “Leadership is by example. I went there so that people could see me. I wanted to assure them they’re not alone.”
His physical presence, he said, was aimed at boosting morale and reducing the risk of further radicalization. “Otherwise, if we continue to witness mass displacements, the youth will be recruited by ISWAP and Boko Haram. Their numbers will increase and it will become difficult to defeat them,” Zulum warned.
To complement military efforts, the state government mobilized over 1,000 Civilian JTF members, hunters, and vigilantes. Zulum explained, “What I did was not only to strengthen their resilience but also to mobilize local volunteers that will support the Nigerian military.”
On the controversial reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members, Zulum was clear: “I can’t say 100% of them are doing the right thing, but I can assure you that over 99% are doing well and are not participating in ongoing terrorism.”
He further emphasized the need for a holistic strategy: “Insurgency will never end by kinetic measures alone. We must deploy non-kinetic solutions—social, political, and economic responses.”
Zulum acknowledged that while some former insurgents may relapse, many have become assets. “Many of the repentant fighters are supporting us in fighting back insurgents. That’s a significant achievement,” he stated.
The governor also revealed the massive toll the conflict has taken on infrastructure and families: “Before 2022, we lost over 5,000 houses, 300 healthcare facilities, and about 1,600 water points to insurgency. We also have an estimated 100,000 widows and orphans.”
Despite the challenges, he said the state is bouncing back through various federal and state programs. “Because of new livelihood opportunities, we’re doing better than before. Inshallah, the situation will be brought under control.”
Zulum also acknowledged the psychological toll on residents. “People are traumatized, yes. But over the last 10 years, they’ve built confidence and resilience.”
To address mental health, his administration is providing psychosocial support through the state’s agency for Sustainable Development, NGOs, and the Ministry of Health. Still, he believes his presence speaks volumes.
“My mission to these affected areas is a morale booster. I will not relent. I’ll continue going to the hinterlands and spending nights with them,” he said.
Zulum closed on a firm note of commitment: “Right now, this is my fourth day, and I want to assure you—I will not return to my office until I’ve completed this journey and done all I can to build confidence and support these communities.”
Explore More News By Using The Button Below.
